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Successful liver transplantation in an infant with stage 4S(M) neuroblastoma
Author(s) -
Steele Melanie,
Jones Nicola L.,
Ng Vicky,
Kamath Binita,
Avitzur Yaron,
Chami Rose,
Cutz Ernest,
Fecteau Annie,
Baruchel Sylvain
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
pediatric blood and cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.116
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1545-5017
pISSN - 1545-5009
DOI - 10.1002/pbc.24391
Subject(s) - neuroblastoma , medicine , blood cancer , stage (stratigraphy) , liver transplantation , cirrhosis , transplantation , liver disease , chemotherapy , cancer , oncology , pediatrics , gastroenterology , paleontology , genetics , biology , cell culture
We report a 2.5‐month‐old infant with bilateral adrenal neuroblastoma, stage 4S(M), with liver metastases and chemotherapy‐induced veno‐occlusive disease leading to cirrhosis requiring liver transplantation. Despite unknown tumour histology and MYCN‐amplification status, we proceeded with liver transplant. This decision was based on clinical suspicion that our patient was MYCN‐negative due to significant tumour regression, and was supported by evidence indicating that MYCN‐amplification is rare in infants with favourable‐stage neuroblastoma. This is the second case report of neuroblastoma requiring liver transplantation; however, in the previously reported case, the diagnosis of neuroblastoma was not established until after transplantation. We discuss this unique case to justify the potential use of life‐saving liver transplants in infants with neuroblastoma. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 515–517. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.